In reply to Lynda Allan’s letter to the editor ("What good is tax cut if health insurance rates skyrocket?," Jan. 6), my first thought was "how sad."

Differences of opinion are a fundamental right, which made our country a better place. I have no problem with criticism of the president, any politician or policy. That makes a healthy democracy. When distaste or blatant hatred for one party or individual clouds the discussions with distortions and outright falsehoods, any benefits from a rational discourse are lost and a deterioration of democracy is threatened. This makes the divide between us greater.

In criticizing the tax bill, Allan states the bill “gives more to those who have plenty and not enough to those who already don’t have enough.” First, the tax bill does not “give” anything. It takes less from taxpayers. If you don’t pay much in taxes, your reduction in taxes will be less than someone who pays more. Allan seems to imply that the government should be in the business of taking from some and giving to others.

This is not the way this country is intended to operate. We have free enterprise, which encourages folks with initiative to research and develop products to make our society better. How do you like that smartphone in your hand? The government did not put it there. It came about from a lot of people motivated by profit who have been rewarded handsomely. If you don’t like this system which has helped create the greatest country the world has ever known, there are other countries that have different systems (Venezuela, for example).

Allan goes on to state, “What happens after 2019 when the individual tax cuts expire?” Fact: The individual tax cuts expire after 2025. Congress, whether controlled by Democrats or Republicans can extend them at that time.

Allan states, “Republicans … are ethically and morally incapable of doing what’s right and acting in accordance with the religion which 99 percent of them falsely claim to believe.” Does this help the debate? From what source did you get that 99 percent of the GOP does not believe in their religion?

Lastly, Allan complains, “What good is that tax cut if medical premiums go up $600 to $800 a year?” The current health care structure was designed and put into law by democrats without a single GOP vote.

Both parties have their problems. Neither is perfect. Let’s start with this and keep the discussion civil and factual.